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cases an impartial judge could not fail to see, after hearing the statements of both parties that the planter is to a great extent responsible for the very troubles of which he complains. And my observations have convinced me, that to a lamentable extent, these complaints upon the part of the employer are mere subterfuges by which to conceal his real intention - viz: To get the labor without expense to himself.

It gives me pleasure to be able to state that on the plantations of the substantial and more reliable planters - but few difficulties are recurring and they - as a general thing are of trivial importance - This class frown with shame upon any betrayals of bitterness or hatred toward the freedmen - at the same time are quietly striving to relieve themselves from embarrassment by attending closely to their own farm affairs - On these plantations the freedmen are working cheerfully and satisfactorily - are paid reasonably for their labor - get what they are entitled to - and are peaceable - industrious and orderly - and on these same plantations more labor has been performed and better crops produced - The class of men just alluded too are influential, and if they would unite upon some plan by which to organize the labor system - and would openly express their opinions &c I am convinced a much better state of things would exist but having been suddenly reduced from comfortable circumstances, to their present condition, they have but little desire to figure in public, and are content to "accept the situation" and quietly

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